A working holiday is a great way to see a new country on a budget and offers the perfect way to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. By working side by side with the Brits you’ll not only subsidise your working holiday and generate some welcome spending money, you’ll also get a real flavour for British daily life.
What you need for a working holiday in the UK
The type of work you can find will depend largely on where you go. Cities will be constantly on the look out for guides, bar staff, and waiters, whilst smaller towns and villages along the coast will have plenty of openings in the tourist sector.
Bar work is a great way to earn money quickly and easily. Shifts will be flexible, work easy to come by, and by being at the heart of the British drinking culture you’ll be able to see a national pastime up close and personal. (Read: Are Tips Taxable in the UK)
Temping is another highly flexible way to earn money and is particularly well suited if you want to base yourself in one of the larger cities for at least several weeks. You’re sure to meet plenty of new people from all walks of life and get a great idea of the local working culture. (Read: Top 5 recruitment agencies for temp work in the UK)
Festivals are constantly on the look out for paid volunteers during the summer months and offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some amazing events whilst earning your keep.
For those interested in seeing the nightlife and cuisine up close then restaurant work is a great way to supplement your stay. Shifts are flexible and because of the large variety of foods eaten in the UK you’ll be able to learn all about national favourites such as Chicken Tikka Masala and Sweet & Sour Fried Chicken.
The main thing to remember when looking for work is be flexible. Approach your trip with an open mind and you’re guaranteed to have a lot of fun along the way.
Think you’ve overpaid tax during your working holiday in the UK. Check if you’re owed a tax refund